How do we define happiness?

For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin - Real Life.

But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first,
some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid.  At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life. This perspective has helped me to see there is no way to happiness.  Happiness is the way.So treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one.  Happiness is a journey, not a destination!"


I have been really thinking about what defines happiness in one's life. 
When we think to ourselves, "am I happy", we think about our life over all...should we look at the small doses of smiles, eye contact, giving to others, touch, petting an animal, looking at the beauty of nature...and put it into a "whole picture of happiness"? 


I don't think that we can be happy 24/7 unless we take the small doses of life and make them to fit into our happiness cup.  According to Dalai Lama, the very purpose of our life is to seek happiness. He also explains that none of this will produce happiness, if your mental attitude is negative.


John 16:33 says, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."  We will never know the first thing about God as a true and loving friend until we come to the full realization that He wants man to be happy. Many people blame God for the wars and diseases that ravage the human race. These are all the doings of man!


Having RA can cause me to have days of "unhappiness", yet...I am a happy person. 
Having divorce looming causes a great source of unhappiness, but no one can take away the memories and laughter that was shared, not even a piece of paper.

Sometimes the smile on my face hides the pain I feel inside

I define happiness when I make eye contact with a stranger, and they smile.

I define happiness when I sing to the top of my lungs at church.

I define happiness when I get to spend time with Andre.

I define happiness when there is a hug given in truth and honesty.

I define happiness when I know that I will see my son again.

I define happiness when I hear a big belly laugh from a friend or stranger.

I define happiness when I look at beautiful mountains and wide open sky.

I define happiness with love...this story to be continued..

I define happiness with working hard to avoid being co-dependent, it only hurts.

So how do YOU define happiness?